Pestana Vila Lido Madeira Ocean Hotel

Fantastic hotel. Very clean, housekeeping always cleaned your room to a high standard everyday. Pool area had plenty of sunbeds and large pool with the option to take a dip in the sea. Rooms were amazing with sea view which was very relaxing. All staff were professional and friendly. Breakfast was nice with lots of variety but it can get a bit boring (personal preference). Hotel was in a good location, easy to get the bus into Funchal and also lots of nearby bars and restaurants near the promenade. Overall a 10/10 holiday and would stay again.

This hotel advertises itself as five-star luxury, but our experience was shocking and deeply disappointing. Just four hours after check-in, we discovered a clear ant infestation in our suite. Dozens of tiny ants were seen moving rapidly across multiple areas – including floors and walls – and they became more active during the night. The nature of the infestation suggested a suspected Pharaoh ant colony, which are notoriously difficult to eradicate and often indicate a broader structural problem. We consulted multiple AI-based pest identification systems, and all confirmed the appearance and behavior were consistent with Pharaoh ants. However, the hotel denied that these were Pharaoh ants. Pharaoh ants are known for their high risk of spreading via travelers’ belongings, making this infestation especially concerning. Travelers should be warned about the potential for these pests to hitchhike in luggage and personal items, risking further spread to new locations. The hotel’s response was completely inadequate. At 9 PM, there was only one staff member available, who simply handed us an insect spray can – and expected us to handle the infestation ourselves. No one came to inspect the room that evening. The hotel promised to contact us within a week and had the opportunity to investigate the issue together with us, but they never reached out or followed up. The issue was downplayed, our concerns dismissed, and no serious action was taken. The hotel offered only a 50% refund for the first night – despite the unsanitary and unacceptable conditions. We immediately changed to a different hotel after the first night, unwilling to risk further exposure. After leaving, we had to treat all our luggage and clothes extensively (including using high heat) to prevent the risk of carrying ants back home. No guest should have to worry about pest contamination or decontaminating their belongings after staying at a so-called five-star hotel. Don’t be fooled by the hotel’s pretty words and promises — they simply don’t deliver. This hotel completely failed in hygiene, transparency, and responsibility. If you value basic cleanliness, competent service, or any level of professionalism, avoid Pestana Vila Lido.

Where do I start . The rooms are clean with very comfortable mattresses, the breakfast is excellent, the staff are exceptionally and will do anything for you . A first class experience. The hotel is round with every room having a balcony . If you stay on the pool side ( west) then you can hear the music at the weekends more but it all stops at 11pm . You due see the sun setting though . If you want allot quieter the East side would be better and you get the sun rising first thing in the mornings . The lifts are easy and not long to wait . There are always sun beds available. You get a lovely breeze as your close to the sea so also hear the waves as you lie there . The girls at the pool bar are lovely and the lunch is lovely and fresh . The steak and eggs are fabulous. The hotel reception staff are so helpful, Ryan helped me when I hurt my ankle and couldn’t make a booked trip . Bruno and all the reception staff are marvellous. You can book all your walks and trips at the reception around €45 each for allot of the hikes which are out of this world for scenic views . Just at the top of the hill 3 min walk at the side of spar shop is a bus stop . The number 1 or 2 or 4 are regular and €2 each will take you the old town and marina or you can walk it in 30 minutes. Across from the hotel are many bars and restaurants but a bigger choice is found in the old town . Opposite the hotel is the supermarket. Recommend buying your water there €1 or hotel is around €6 . We stayed in a suit room 714 a lovely but next to the lift but you can’t hear it . We will definitely return .

Just returned from a week spent at this hotel and we were delighted with our choice having been to Madeira several times and each time trying a new hotel. The location of the hotel is superb and the access to the sea was a plus for us. The pool area and all the staff that work in and around there are fabulous. The rooms are kept at a high standard of cleanliness so again great staff. Breakfast - the hotel caters for all nationality’s and the choice is a plentiful. They work had replenishing items and I assume it is the manager that is constantly wiping down and cleaning up to ensure all holiday makers get the best experience. We did not encounter anyone that was not welcoming or accommodating - well done to all the staff! The room had everything we needed, we had a couple of small issues which were reported and rectified promptly and yes there was a bit of paint peeling off in the bathroom but that was minor. The ceiling fan was a great addition to complement the air conditioning. Areas around the hotel were well maintained, rubbish bins had lids on - fantastic! Check in and out was simple and prompt, absolutely nothing negative to say only positives. We plan to return next year as for us it was everything we were looking for in beautiful Madeira. Well done to everyone in the team that contributes to guest experience.

We came here 6 years ago when the hotel was known as Pestana Palms, we are so glad the hotel has the same professionalism and service as before. The location is perfect and is definitely worth returning to, we are smitten

Absolut excellent service, esp. from Mr. Gaudino and the entire team, brilliant cousine willing to serve special requests as well. We listened to absolute fantastic Fado music, performed by Ms Enia. We surely come back whenever in Funchal. Muito obrigado.